Family support

What is an intervention? How it works

Published October 10, 2025 · 8 min read · Updated April 2026

Reviewed for accuracy by licensed clinical professionals.

What it is

A structured conversation with someone about their addiction, conducted by people who care about them, with treatment arranged and ready if they agree.

Types

Johnson Model: confrontational with prepared statements and consequences. ARISE: gradual escalation from invitation to structured conversation. CRAFT: teaches family techniques to motivate treatment-seeking without confrontation (65-75% success rate).

Planning

Arrange treatment before the intervention. Choose participants carefully. Each person writes a personal statement with specific observations, love expression, and consequences. Do not conduct while the person is intoxicated.

If they say no

Follow through on stated consequences. The intervention planted a seed. Many people who refuse initially accept treatment days to months later.

Authoritative sources

This article references guidelines from: SAMHSA · NIDA · ASAM

Frequently asked questions

Do interventions work?

Professional interventions have 70-90% success in getting agreement to treatment. CRAFT has 65-75% success. Even refusals often lead to later treatment-seeking.

How much does an interventionist cost?

$2,000-$10,000 depending on interventionist, location, and complexity.

What if they get angry?

Anger is expected. A professional interventionist manages this. Stay calm, do not argue, return to prepared statements.

Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. SAMHSA: 1-800-662-4357.